Nondestructive Analysis of Lignin Structure by NMR Spectroscopy of Specifically 13C-Enriched Lignins. Part 1. Solid State Study of Ginkgo Wood

Summary Guaiacyl-type lignin is the major component of ginkgo lignin. Specific 13c-enrichment of α, β and γ-carbons of the guaiacylpropane side chains was achieved by administration of coniferin-[α13C], coniferin-[β-13C] and coniferin-[γ13C], respectively, to growing stems of ginkgo trees. Unenriched coniferin was administered as a control. The xylem tissues containing specifically 13C-enriched lignins or unenriched lignin were subjected to analysis by solid state NMR. Subtraction of the spectrum of tissue containing unenriched lignin from the spectra of tissues containing 13C-enriched lignins gave difference spectra exclusively assigned to the enriched side chain carbons of intact protolignin in the cell walls. From the signal intensities determined under quantitative conditions and an estimate of corresponding standard uncertainties, the percentage ranges of the major inter-unit lignin bonds originating from the β-carbon of the coniferin precursor were estimated to be: β-O-4/α-O-R (R = H, polysaccharides or lignols) including β-OH, 53% to 57%; combined β-5, β-β and β-1, 32% to 36%; coniferaldehyde end groups, 2% to 4%; and coniferyl alcohol end groups, 4% to 6%.